Cost of Breast Lift Surgery

If you are considering a breast lift (mastopexy or mastoplexy) to help raise and shape sagging breasts, cost is likely a consideration, especially since, as a cosmetic procedure, this surgery is generally not covered by health insurance.

Breast Lift Cost: What's Included and What's Not

Breast lift cost ranges from $3,500 to $6,000. Upfront breast lift costs typically comprise anesthesia, the facility fee and the surgeon's fee. There are other hidden costs such as preoperative lab work, antibiotics to reduce the risk of postoperative infections, prescription painkillers as well as other recovery aids.

Additional Procedures: Cost Effective?

A breast lift can be performed as a standalone procedure or in combination with breast augmentation with implants or breast reduction; it can also be incorporated as part of an auto augmentation of the breast procedure. A breast lift can also be part of a post-bariatric surgery body contouring plan that includes arm lift, bra-line back lift and buttock lift.

When having two or more surgical procedures performed at the same time, such as breast lift and breast augmentation, the total cost is higher; however, you will only pay one anesthesia and one facility fee. So, if you are planning to have the other surgery at some point in the future, it may make sense (and cents) to have it performed at the same time. Discuss this with your surgeon during your breast lift consultation.

Know the Consultation Fee Policy

Some breast surgeons may charge a consultation fee. Some offices allow this fee to be applied to the cost of the surgery, while others do not. Be clear about the surgeon's consultation fee policy before you book your breast lift consultation.

Location, Location, Location

Exactly where to have your breast lift performed also plays a role in your breast lift cost. Breast lifts typically cost more in urban areas such as Los Angeles or Dallas where overhead costs are higher and surgeons are in greater demand.

Plastic surgery tourism — traveling to a remote destination to have your breast lift — is risky. Breast lifts may be cheaper in other areas, including outside of the U.S., but traveling may increase your breast lift risk potential, including your risk of serious complications such as infections during your recovery from breast lift.

Breast Lift Cost: Parting Words

Be sure to ask your surgeon what the breast lift cost quote includes, and what it doesn't, before scheduling your surgery. If your breast lift is done for cosmetic reasons, you will likely be responsible for the full cost. To protect yourself and your wallet, inquire about plans that cover the cost of complications during the first year after your breast lift. If the breast lift cost is prohibitive, ask your surgeon about financing options. On the other hand, you may want to consider breast lift alternatives.